Pupils at secondary schools in East Renfrewshire will continue to wear face coverings in class, according to new guidance from the Scottish Government.

A more cautious approach is being taken – advised by clinicians, including chief medical officer Dr Gregor Smith – to provide ample time for 12 to 15-year-olds to take up the first dose of Covid vaccination.

Face coverings in communal areas for secondary pupils and staff, as well as primary staff, will also continue.

The new guidance is contrary to reports last week that the need for face coverings would be dropped at the end of the October break.

But Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said the restrictions will be lifted "at the earliest possible time."

She added: "In recent weeks, we have seen the previous sharp decline in Covid-19 case numbers starting to level off and that is why we have decided to adopt a cautious approach and maintain safety mitigations in school for the time being.

"Progress with vaccinating 12 to 15-year-olds has been remarkable and is already over 40 per cent. However, this was only rolled out a few weeks ago and allowing further time will mean that encouraging figure rises even higher.

"This decision is based on advice from senior clinicians and takes account of the most recent data.

"We will continue to monitor case rates on a weekly basis, with a view to lifting restrictions at the earliest possible time."

Ms Somerville added: "While I fully understand that this will be disappointing news for some young people and their parents, as has been the situation throughout, the safety of children, young people and all education staff remains the overriding priority.

"There is no room for complacency and we must all continue to remain vigilant to reduce the spread of Covid-19."